Universal design (UD) is a philosophy and set of principles aiming to create products, environments, and communications that are usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialized design. It seeks to consider the diversity of human abilities, physical limitations, age, cognitive differences, and other factors to create inclusive and equitable solutions.

Core principles of universal design:

• Equitable use: The design should be usable by people with diverse abilities, regardless of their physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations.
• Flexibility in use: The design should accommodate a wide range of individual preferences and abilities.
• Simple and intuitive use: The design should be easy to understand and operate, with clear and consistent information presentation.
• Perceptible information: The design should communicate necessary information effectively, through multiple senses if possible.
• Tolerance for error: The design should minimize the risk of errors and unintended consequences, and provide appropriate feedback for safe use.
• Low physical effort: The design should be operable with minimal physical exertion, considering different body sizes and strength levels.
• Size and space for approach and use: The design should provide adequate space for people using various mobility aids and different body sizes.

Applications of universal design:

• Built environments: Buildings, public spaces, transportation systems, housing, and urban infrastructure.
• Products: Furniture, appliances, electronics, tools, packaging, and educational materials.
• Information and communication: Websites, documents, signage, software interfaces, and multimedia presentations.
• Services: Education, healthcare, transportation, public services, and online platforms.

Benefits of universal design:

• Increased accessibility and inclusion: Creates opportunities for participation and engagement for everyone.
• Improved usability and user experience: Enhances functionality and ease of use for a wider range of people.
• Reduced need for adaptation or specialized design: Makes products and environments more cost-effective and sustainable.
• Increased market potential: Reaches a larger customer base and promotes social responsibility.
• Enhanced quality of life: Promotes independence, dignity, and well-being for all.

Related terms: Inclusive design, accessible design, human-centered design, design for all, barrier-free design, assistive technology.

Universal Design (Wikipedia)

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Universal design is the design of buildings, products or environments to make them accessible to people, regardless of age, disability, or other factors. It emerged as a rights-based, anti-discrimination measure, which seeks to create design for all abilities. Evaluating material and structures that can be utilized by all. It addresses common barriers to participation by creating things that can be used by the maximum number of people possible. “When disabling mechanisms are to be replaced with mechanisms for inclusion, different kinds of knowledge are relevant for different purposes. As a practical strategy for inclusion, Universal Design involves dilemmas and often difficult priorities.” Curb cuts or sidewalk ramps, which are essential for people in wheelchairs but also used by all, are a common example of universal design.